* * * * *
_September 1._
To-day I wish my dearest father much good sport, and you a good
appetite to enjoy his success.
I am ashamed, my ever dearest lady mother, to send you so dirty a
letter, but I trust you will excuse it, as I was hurried by the
idea of the vessel sailing.
Sir John Stuart carries the mail in which are these letters. I hope
the country will receive him as the daring nature of his exploits
and the fulness of his victory warrant and demand.
* * * * *
MESSINA, _October 10, 1806_.
MY DEAREST FATHER--I have seen but little of General Moore. When I
meet him he treats me in the most agreeable way possible. I dined
with him the other day. He came very close to my heart talking of
you in a very friendly manner. Not indeed that he said much, but
when he mentioned you, he had a sort of friendly satisfaction very
agreeable. He told me I was not such a slim fellow as you, and
asked about your shooting, etc.
I feel it a sort of comfort to have some interest with a man who
may possibly prevent my being left in holes and corners when I
should be elsewhere.
General Sherbrooke is here. I do not know him, but hear he is a
first-rate officer.
We are extremely anxious for the packet. We expect to hear by
the next arrivals what our countrymen think of the battle of
Maida.--Your dutiful and affectionate son,